Fundraising Support Creates Lasting Impact

Photo by University Relations

The U of A raised $93 million in new gifts and received $173 million in cash payments on existing commitments in fiscal year 2023 to support students, faculty, capital improvements and programs.

"We’ve made a lot of news recently, breaking ground on world-class research facilities and setting institutional records in areas such as enrollment, scholarships awarded, retention rate, graduation rate and research expenditures,” said Chancellor Charles Robinson. “Our alumni and friends deserve much of the credit for those successes. Their generosity has helped make the U of A one of the nation's top universities, and I am deeply grateful for their support.”

Private gift support in fiscal year 2023 provided funding for the establishment of 35 new endowed funds. Endowed funds provide permanent funding to a multitude of areas at the university. Through endowed faculty positions and research support, creativity drives discovery, teaching and service benefiting the state of Arkansas and the world. 

“It is extremely moving to know the stories behind our benefactors that lead them to give back to the U of A,” said Alan Mantooth, distinguished professor in electrical engineering. “Their support and inspiration help us build facilities, programs and experiences that directly lead to a better and better student each year. As a result, these students take a back seat to no one and become leaders in their respective fields.”

The $93 million raised includes gifts of cash, gifts-in-kind, planned gifts and new pledges received from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023. Approximately $8.6 million was directed by donors for use as endowment when received. 

During the fiscal year, donors supported students by creating 42 new student scholarships, awards and fellowships. Such support helps to minimize financial barriers and unlocks opportunities for hard-working, deserving students. This support also creates access to undergraduate research, study abroad programs and other meaningful educational opportunities that enhance the experience for each student, resulting in higher graduation rates and post-graduation outcomes.

“Without this generous scholarship, my dreams simply wouldn’t be attainable due to financial struggles,” said David Derosier, a freshman architecture major. “The difference this holds for my future is almost indescribable.” 

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to our generous benefactors and friends who help us continue to elevate the University of Arkansas to new heights,” said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. “Their partnership and support are critical to our success as we are entrusted with the tremendous honor of fulfilling our mission of service to our students and our state.”

All private gifts to the university are designated and allocated for specific purposes set forth by each donor and used solely for those purposes. The university strives to align donors’ giving interests with campus priorities.

About University Advancement: University Advancement advances the mission of the University of Arkansas by raising private gift support from alumni, friends, parents, foundations, corporations, and other institutional supporters. Working in philanthropic partnership with academic leaders and volunteers, Advancement team members are determined to advance the people, work, and impact of the greater whole at the University of Arkansas.

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $2.2 billion to Arkansas’ economy through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.